The sports world is mourning the loss of Nottingham Panthers’ Adam Johnson, who recently met with a tragic incident on the ice.
Despite this sorrowful event, the Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) has announced it will not enforce the compulsory use of neck guards. The league, expressing deep regret over Johnson’s passing, instead “vigorously recommends” that players wear protective neck equipment.
The accident occurred when Johnson suffered a fatal neck laceration caused by a skate blade in a clash against the Sheffield Steelers this past Saturday.
While the English Ice Hockey Association (EIHA) had proclaimed neck guards would be compulsory by 2024, this ruling doesn’t extend to the EIHL, which operates autonomously.
“The safety and well-being of our players are always at the forefront,” stated a representative from the EIHL. “We are committed to collaborating with all stakeholders to incorporate ongoing research and professional advice to advance our sport’s safety measures.”
The Risks of the Rink
Following Johnson’s tragic death, an inquiry commenced last Friday. The 29-year-old athlete’s injury resulted from a skate worn by Sheffield’s Matt Petgrave.
Characterized by the Nottingham Panthers as a “rare mishap,” South Yorkshire Police have indicated that getting to the bottom of this case will be a lengthy process.
In Britain, the regulations permit players to forgo neck guards once they reach 18 years of age.
The EIHL, expressing devastation at the untimely death of Johnson, relayed, “Our clubs are currently guided by the International Ice Hockey Federation’s advice, which suggests the use of a BNQ or equivalent ISO Standard neck protector. We promote and support our players and officials in wearing these protectors.”
The EIHA has delayed the immediate requirement of neck guards due to “anticipated issues with supply,” but asserts that they will be mandatory for all on-ice events it governs from the beginning of next year.
Across the pond, the National Hockey League (NHL) has engaged in dialogue with its player’s union about ramping up safety measures.
“We’re in talks with the players’ association about whether this will be an immediate mandate or introduced gradually,” shared NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman.
Scottish Ice Hockey and Ice Hockey UK, the overseer of the Great Britain national squad, already have rules in place that enforce the use of neck guards.
The EIHL has temporarily suspended its games, but the league will recommence this weekend, with the exception of Nottingham Panthers and Sheffield Steelers.
Fans will have the opportunity to honor Johnson’s memory at the Motorpoint Arena on Saturday during a two-minute moment of silence.
Nottingham has paid homage to their player by crafting a commemorative jersey featuring Johnson’s number 47, creating a lasting tribute to a life and career cut tragically short.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about EIHL Neck Guard Policy
Will the Elite Ice Hockey League make neck guards mandatory?
No, the Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) will not make neck guards mandatory following the death of Adam Johnson. However, the league strongly recommends their use and will continue to support players and officials who choose to wear them.
What led to the EIHL’s decision on neck guards?
The EIHL’s decision comes after Nottingham Panthers’ player Adam Johnson died due to a neck injury caused by a skate blade. While the English Ice Hockey Association (EIHA) will require neck guards from 2024, the EIHL is not governed by the EIHA and thus has made its own determination.
How has the Nottingham Panthers honored Adam Johnson?
The Nottingham Panthers have created a memorial jersey with Johnson’s number 47 to honor his memory. Additionally, a two-minute silence will be held at the Motorpoint Arena to pay tribute to him.
Are neck guards mandatory in any ice hockey leagues?
Yes, Scottish Ice Hockey and Ice Hockey UK have made neck guards mandatory. The EIHA also plans to make them compulsory for all on-ice activities it oversees starting January 1st of the following year.
More about EIHL Neck Guard Policy
- EIHL Statement on Neck Guards
- Tribute to Adam Johnson by Nottingham Panthers
- Ice Hockey Safety Regulations
- EIHA Neck Guard Mandate
- NHL Safety Measures Discussions
5 comments
just heard about Adam Johnson, such a tragedy man, makes you think twice about the safety in sports today, doesn’t it?
neck guards should be a no-brainer imo… why wait until 2024? seems a bit too late for such an important safety measure
can’t believe EIHL isn’t making these guards mandatory right away its common sense after what happened to Johnson.
Was at the game where it happened, totally shocking, safety should always come first, right? how many more wake-up calls do they need…
i’m not sure what the league is thinking but honoring AJ with a jersey and a moment of silence is a class act, thoughts and prayers to his family